Connections
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ISSAQUAH HIGHL ANDS
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By Community, for Community September 2019
2019 Volunteer of the Year
Congratulations Aline! W H AT ’ S I N S I D E ? 5 Feature: Volunteers of the Months &Year 9 Volunteer of the Month 10 Wish You Were Here 11 Highlands Council 12 IHCA Operations & Updates 14 Living Green 16 What’s Happening 19 Highlands Youth - HY
19 21 23 24 25 25 27 27 29 30
31 Directory City News School Spotlight Holidays in the Highlands Resident Profile Dog Talk Trivia Challenge Home Organization Ask Kari Highlands Fiber Network Emergency Preparedness
ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON 2550 NE Park Drive Issaquah, WA 98029
PERMIT NO. 83 ISSAQUAH, WA U.S. POSTAGE PAID PRSRT STD
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Issaquah Highlands Connections
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Issaquah Highlands Connections
September 2019
EDITOR’S NOTE In this issue of Connections we celebrate our community’s volunteers, as our community is truly built by its volunteers. Oh sure, the buildings and the roads were built by engineers and contractors who got paid for their work. However, from the very beginning, residents and other supporters contributed their time, energies and talents to make Issaquah Highlands the special place we all enjoy today. When my husband and I first moved here in 2004 we jumped in with both feet volunteering. Rob lent his business acumen to the IHCA while I helped with event planning and community building. While these experiences were intended to contribute to the quality of life in the Highlands, we also learned many new things, especially about how communities operate. And we became close friends with neighbors, relationships that have lasted over the years.
Nina and Rob, Volunteers of the Month, as pictured in November 2007 Connections.
Beginning on page 5, enjoy getting to know this year’s Volunteers of the Month and Volunteer of the Year, Aline Bloch. The contributions these people make to our community directly or indirectly enrich all of us, filling me with gratitude. Yet, all of them say they get back much more than they put into the community. I hope you will be inspired by their stories and say, “Thanks!” if you encounter them in our community. Also read about life in Issaquah Highlands, about sustainability in our Living Green™ section, or about the now world-famous, Great Goat Escape. Read about Going Back to School or leveraging our unparalleled community fiber-to-the-home connectivity. Each month we collect stories from this community just for you, stories that reflect who we are and what we value. And we collect most of these stories from volunteers! If you wish to be more involved in our community, I hope you will contact us. We can help you find just the right situation based on your availability and desires. See the Directory on page 31 for more information. Thank You, Volunteers!
Nina Milligan
Nina Milligan | Editor of
Connections - Highlands Council Communications Manager
Highlands Council is the publisher of Connections, producer of community-wide events such as Highlands Day, owner and manager of Blakely Hall, liaison with the greater community. The mission of Highlands Council, and therefore, Connections News, is “to foster the development of a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, and well-being.”
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Ryan Aby Pranav Alaparthi Venu Aluri Rosi Amini Aby Angilivelil Breckin Armstrong Emily Arteche Gary Ashby Lisa Austin Kiran Bertil Anish Bhamidipati Erinn Bloch Aline Bloch Oliver Bloch Joseph Bone-Mazak Andrea Bryn Jasmine Chang Muthu Chidambaram Vivek Chilakala Stacy Cho Brody Cho Andres Dalzell Ami Desai-Mehta Sejal Dogiparthi Mona Du Seble Fekade Tim Flood Sarah Games Samantha Garrard
Highland Cleaner s UPS Store I S S A Q U A H H I G H L A N D S HAS YOU COVERED! Kumon Math & Reading Center Verizon Mobvitel Frame Central
missions +accomplished
Alex Garrard Elizabeth Gregg Hawani Harper Sophia Hashmey Saira Hashmey Sana Hashmey Matt Hrdlicka Ethan Hunter Kenny Hunter Toni Hunter Elizabeth Jackson Vernika Jain A.J. Jallow Omar Jallow Shannon Jallow Cindy Kamrin Medhini Kapa Sydney Kapustein Kimberly Kapustein Vanessa Keverkamp Megan Kilzi Cindy Klenk Karen Klinkenberg Sheryl Knappenberger Eleni Konomi Eva Konomi Emily Konomi Deepali Kothari Anika Kumar
Issaquah Highlands Connections
Lisa Le Susan Leonelli Jayapranith Maddukuri Grace McKillop Anika Mehta Cash Mendoza Dylan Merkel Magaly Merkel Petek Mertan Elisha Mitchell Adya Mohapatra Max Morrey Sri Nadimpalli Thi Nguyen Annika Nielsen Larry Norton Emily Palm Michael Palm Michele Palm Anna Patterson Crystal Pitts Jayagowri Rajasekaran Grace Rich Nicole Rich Kirsten Romero Isha Rudramurthy Quinn Ryan Dylan Ryan Tim Ryan
Lynn Ryan Ananya Sahoo Pradeep Sahoo Sasmita Sahoo Naina Shankar Isabel Smith Lisa Soboslai Daphne Suen Eric Tangborn Sam Thacker Olivia Wang Devin Wilcoxen Leika Wong Eric Yang Colin Yuen
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September 2019
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Congratulations Aline Bloch, on being named Issaquah Highlands 2019 Volunteer of the Year! This recognition is well-deserved and earned over multiple years of dedication to our community. Highlands Council tapped into Aline’s passion for sustainable décor three years ago and she has become the Highlands Day Décor Designer. Aline approached us in early 2019 about sharing her journey to living a more sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle for her family with all of you. From this discussion grew a new Connections article series (see page 15) and programming series that began in April, just in time for Earth Day. This summer Aline facilitated terrarium-building, paper-making, and DIY skin and home care product seminars at Blakely Hall, all while putting her design skills to work for our GAME ON! Highlands Day Festival. Aline is a perfect example of how serving in a way that serves a purpose in an area that brings you joy is the key to personal fulfilment when volunteering. We hope Aline’s example and the information that follows in this feature inspires YOU to get involved in our community; your participation is very welcome! Lindsey, Nina and I LOVE meeting with neighbors who have new ideas for the community or who just want to feel more connected. Contact us, let’s meet for coffee and discuss what could be. When you see Aline around the community be sure to say, “félicitations et bien fait;” which is French for congratulations and well done! – Christy Garrard, Executive Director, Highlands Council and Dahlia Park resident
"She is always willing to lend not only a helping hand, but also her vision and artistic prowess. She accomplishes all this while gently reminding us to consider our impact on our even bigger community—planet Earth!" – Carrie Mount
"Aline approaches everything with an energy and joy that is infectious. Aline has given so much of her time to her community, I’m so glad she is being celebrated this year. Merci, Aline! On t’aime!" – Teresa Cowan
She is truly an advocate for all our community and an amazing role model for us as neighbors." – Katrin Benders "As her neighbor, I can see her working late into the evenings creating magical backdrops to bring our community celebrations to life. She is so generous in everything she does - always thinking of others. I'm inspired to be a better person and community member just by knowing her." – Jessica Burles
"I especially appreciate how she shares her beautiful culture with our community, her love for art and for taking care of our environment." – Alicia Spinner, 2018 Volunteer of the Year
DON'T MISS UPCOMING LIVING GREEN WORKSHOPS! October 20 – Upcycled Art Workshop (Above, right) Aline with a hand-made decor piece from arcade-themed Game On! Highlands Day. Photo from Aline's Instagram @alinescardboard.
December 14 – Make It a Green Holiday Visit issaquahhighlands.com/events or see page 20 for more information.
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Each month, we feature a resident volunteer who made a notable impact in our community in some way. Here we would like to recognize our featured volunteers from September 2018 to August 2019. Thank you for all you continue to do for the Issaquah Highlands community! SEPTEMBER 2018
GEOFF WALKER Urban Village Development Commission (UVDC), Issaquah Highland Pedestrian and Road Safety Program “We were pioneers and that meant getting involved. Pretty much everyone who came here early was participating in some aspect of the community – meetings, social events, construction discussions, trails, parks, etc."
NOVEMBER 2018
ANGELINA CHIN Chinese Heritage Club, Mooncake Festival “When we volunteer, we shape the kind of community we want to live in. When we volunteer, we make changes to our community that will benefit not only us, but also the future generations of people who will grow up here, as I have.”
JANUARY 2019
JOHN KNAPPENBERGER IHCA Finance Committee “Being a part of the Finance Committee has given me a new awareness into the amount of time, work, effort, and cost in maintaining a community of this size.”
OCTOBER 2018
SHIVA BOSEDEVARAHATTI IHCA Board of Directors, IHCA Finance Committee “After having lived in America for almost 30 years – more than half my lifetime, the ‘volunteer’ spirit now seems to be well ingrained in me and my family.”
DECEMBER 2018
ADAM & NICOLE POND Bingo Nights, Bunco, Condo HOA, Past IHCA & HFN volunteers “We... really look forward to [our daughter] Ruby reaching the age where she can get involved and learn just how much fun, beneficial and how important it is to be a part of the community by volunteering and being a good steward.”
FEBRUARY 2019
SOPHIA HASHMEY Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board, Blakely Hall Art “The habit of reaching out to the people around you is a life skill that contributes to the happiness of the world…Volunteering helped me realize what amazing accomplishments people can make when working together.”
APRIL 2019
MARCH 2019
BOWBOW GU Chinese Heritage Club, Mooncake Festival, Chinese New Year One of the things Bowbow loves about Issaquah Highlands is the range of cultures we get to experience as residents. In addition to teaching her kids about their heritage, she values the opportunity to share her Chinese culture with the rest of the community through events and celebrations.
MELODY GREENE IHCA Finance Committee “I feel very fortunate to serve with other residents, as well as IHCA staff, who are committed to assisting the Board with ensuring the financial stability of our community.”
Issaquah Highlands Connections
September 2019 MAY 2019
JUNE 2019
KATIE HAYS
JOSEPH BONE MAZAK
Wednesday Toddler Playgroup
Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board, Highlands Day, Community Gardens
“Once I began volunteering, I began to see familiar, shining faces everywhere. People are what make a place home and the playgroup made this a home for us.”
“Don’t be scared to go out of your way and help out the community. You will make new friends and build stronger relationships with people...Going out of your way to help, even if it’s something small, is better than not doing anything at all!”
JULY 2019
AUGUST 2019
GREG UNDERWOOD
ALINE BLOCH
IHCA Board of Directors
Living Green Events and Connections monthly column, Highlands Day EcoDécor
“What I learned is we need more volunteers to keep this large community moving forward. It’s easy to volunteer, you will meet some amazing people, and you will get a say in the future of the community.”
“Sharing, advocating and spicing people’s life with joy is a part of my personality. This community helped me find my path and become fulfilled in so many ways.”
Getting more involved in our community is a fun and easy way to meet people and contribute to the participatory culture of Issaquah Highlands. How can YOU get more involved? Visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer for more details. Lead a community group
Volunteer at an event
All our community groups in Issaquah Highlands are volunteer led. Our group leaders share their passion with the neighborhood and bring people together with common interests. If you have an interest and would like to connect with others who share your interest, let us know!
Volunteers make our events happen! From helping with kids crafts at a family event, to bartending at an adult event, volunteers are an essential component to almost all our community events. Visit issaquahhighlands.com/ volunteer for more information.
Highlands Council will help you get a community group started, just email Lindsey at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org.
Current opportunities: Mid-Autumn Festival, September 8 Dia de Los Muertos, November 1 Shop Local Holiday Bazaar, November 30
Serve on a board or committee
Contribute to Connections
The IHCA Board of Directors and committees (Covenant Committee, Architectural Review Committee, Finance Committee) are all staffed by resident volunteers. The Highlands Council Board of Trustees and HFN Boards of Directors are also open to volunteer members.
Connections is "by community, for community." Highlands Council is always looking for volunteer contributing writers, photographers and graphic designers. Contributions can be one-off or monthly. Examples of regular volunteer contributions include monthly columns like "Emergency Preparedness," "Dog Talk," and "School Spotlight."
No current positions available. Contact each organization to inquire about future opportunities or visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer for updates.
Contact Nina Milligan, Communications Manager, at nina.m@ihcouncil.org for more information.
Join an event planning committee
Various other opportunities
In partnership with volunteers, Highlands Council puts on events to build community, celebrate cultural events, and just have fun! If you have an idea for an event, email lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org. Visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer for more information on current opportunities.
Do you prefer office work? Or preparing things from home? Maybe you have a special talent like photography or music… reach out and let us know you’re interested in getting more involved in the community and we’ll work with you to find a good fit. We believe that everyone has something to offer to make our neighborhood thrive!
Current opportunities: Dia de Los Muertos Planning Committee Shop Local Holiday Bazaar Planning Committee
Submit the form at issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer to tell us more about how you'd like to get involved.
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Issaquah Highlands Connections
September 2019
SEPTEMBER
VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
Lisa Soboslai
Volunteer of the Month Lisa Soboslai with husband Sam Thacker.
My husband, Sam Thacker, and I are part of the first wave of Issaquah Highlands’ residents, moving here in March of 2002 from Kansas City. We were excited for the promise the Highlands held for an “Urban Village” and have loved every minute watching the Highlands vision come to life. When we moved into our home, Interchange 18 off I-90 did not exist and there was little development above 15th street. Ashland Park and gazebo on Katsura Street were the center of town at that time! It always amazes me every time I drive down (or up!) Park Drive how much the community has grown!
Volunteer of the Month for September 2019 is Lisa Soboslai.
We moved to the Highlands and became involved in volunteer opportunities because it was such an amazing opportunity to “build” a community pretty much from scratch. I was an early member of the Highlands Governance Committee when we were still under the direction of Port Blakely. At that time, much of our work focused on refining the community covenants and funding improvements for parks and community spaces. I also served on the Transition Task Force when the Highlands assumed independent leadership and oversight.
Being part of the transition was really interesting as I learned so much about the infrastructure supporting our community. I currently volunteer at Highlands Day and sit on the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) Covenant Committee. I think of the Covenant Committee as the organization that maintains the visual integrity of the Highlands. We work with residents to ensure they understand and uphold the landscape and property guidelines that keep our community beautiful for all to enjoy. In terms of the future, I’d love to see more residents get involved in volunteering for all the committees. I truly believe you get more out of the volunteer experience than the small time commitment required. We really love the Highlands and can’t imagine ourselves living anywhere else. If you would like to volunteer in Issaquah Highlands, see more information at issaquahhighlands.com/connect/ volunteer/
You get more out of volunteering than you put in.
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Dear Neighbor, wish You Were Here...
DIY Home & Personal Care Demo
We had an inspiring night with Aline Bloch learning about simple ways we can “go green” at home. She showed us products we can make ourselves (and we got to make our own personalized skin oil to take home), and she demonstrated some of her favorite products to purchase. We left motivated to live a greener lifestyle! Don’t miss the next Living GreenTM event with Aline on October 20 – we’ll be making upcycled art!
City Council Candidate Forum The candidates for Issaquah City Council did not disappoint! We learned a lot about their views and goals during this evening of questioning. It was great to get to know those candidates running unopposed as well as getting a deeper understanding of those vying for a spot. We’re looking forward to hearing more from these candidates, and to a separate forum for Issaquah School Board candidates, in October.
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HIGHLANDS COUNCIL
A Conversation about Culture by Lindsey Pinkston, Highlands Council Community Program Manager
I am excited to introduce a new program launching October 3 as a partnership between Highlands Council, the City of Issaquah, and the Issaquah community. The Cultural Conversations program is designed for all residents to get better connected with their community and to enhance their knowledge and understanding of different cultural practices and world views. The City of Bellevue started their Cultural Conversations program in 2010. I was fortunate to attend a couple of their events earlier this year and was so inspired I knew that we needed to bring this program to Issaquah. During each event, we will hear from residents (storytellers) about a topic. Then we will discuss in smaller, moderator-led table groups about what we heard and what it means to us. Culture is defined as “the customs, arts, social institutions, and achievements of a particular nation, people or social group.” At my first Cultural Conversations event in Bellevue, in addition to a transplant from New York and a grandparent from Japan, one of the people at my table was the mom of a child with special needs. That is her culture, and I realized that day that each of us has our own culture, whether it be where we’re from, what we’ve been through, or the challenges we face today. Cultural Conversations will take place four times in the next year at Blakely Hall. The events are free, refreshments will be served, and people of all ages, faiths and cultures are welcome to attend. Pre-arranged childcare is recommended. I encourage you all to join me on October 3 at 7:00pm for an uplifting night of conversation and learning!
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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
Who Manages What? by Sarah Hoey, IHCA Executive Director
The IHCA survey results last spring identified there is still some confusion about who handles various property management issues in Issaquah Highlands such as land development, parking, streets, sidewalks, traffic, open spaces, snow removal, crime, illegal dumping, wildlife and pet management. The answer is not always a simple one. Even though Issaquah Highlands feels like its own city, separate from the City of Issaquah, we are simply another (although large) community within the city limits and surrounded by King County land. It can be complicated and confusing when you see a concern to know who to contact. Never assume it is always a function of the IHCA! Always feel free to contact the IHCA to ask who the best contact is for your question or concern; if not an IHCA managed area, the staff will be happy to direct you to the right agency.
City of Issaquah Issaquahwa.gov
Governed by an elected Mayor and City Council and supported by an array of appointed resident volunteer committee and commission members. Funded by taxes, bonds, impact and mitigation fees. In Issaquah Highlands the City of Issaquah Public Works Department maintains the streets and most of the sidewalks; including snow removal. The IHCA does assist with snow removal in the commercial areas, and some supplemental neighborhood private roads. Public Works also manages storm water and the retention ponds. The Parks and Recreation Department own and operate Central Park, Grand View Park, and Black Nugget Park in Issaquah Highlands.
Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) Our community Homeowner Association IssaquahHighlands.com or 425-427-9257
Governed by a Board of Directors made up of and elected by the homeowners of Issaquah Highlands. The staff and Board of Directors are also supported by homeowner volunteers that serve on various committees including Finance, Architectural Review, and Covenant. The IHCA is funded by assessments that make up the annual operating budget. The staffdrafted annual budget is approved by the Finance Committee and Board of Directors and then ratified at the annual homeowner’s membership meeting at the end of June each year. The IHCA staff is divided into various departments including community managers, compliance, accounting, landscape and maintenance. The community managers, landscape and maintenance staffs oversee residential common areas including 15 supplemental neighborhoods, 21 parks, and acres of open space. Their roles are to maintain the IHCA owned parks, trails, playgrounds, and other amenities. The community managers and compliance staff make sure homeowners are maintaining their properties in alignment with the IHCA governing documents. The IHCA staff, Board and committees are actively involved in reviewing and approving new residential and commercial construction as well as new business applications in our community in partnership with the City of Issaquah.
The Police department enforces parking, speed and other traffic violations as well as regular patrols for public safety. The IHCA helps enhance public safety by maintaining streetscapes and installing and maintaining the crosswalk flag program. The City Development Services Department is where all land development permits begin for both residential and commercial uses. This department also enforces city ordinances, zoning, building codes, and approves business licenses in partnership with IHCA leadership.
King County
Kingcounty.gov Governed by nine elected Council members, a Sherriff, a Tax Assessor, and a County Prosecutor. Funded by taxes. As it relates to Issaquah Highlands, King County manages the forested open space including the area known as Grand Ridge Park, that surrounds our community. The County also manages the trails in Grand Ridge Park. Other communityrelated considerations managed by the county include noxious weed control and storm and ground water management. Illegal dumping and wildlife concerns are usually handled by the county. Pets are required to be licensed through the county.
What is a Supplemental Neighborhood? by Debbie Orosco, IHCA Community Manager
When creating Issaquah Highlands, Port Blakely designated several supplemental neighborhoods within the master association. Supplemental neighborhoods often: • Maintain their own governing documents and community rules along with the master governing documents. • Ratify an annual budget with assessments in addition to the master budget. • Share common areas or parks specific to their neighborhood. • Receive additional IHCA provided services not offered in other residential areas of Issaquah Highlands. • Have distinct housing types, from single family homes to condos. • Have a volunteer neighborhood committee. The Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) manages several of these supplemental neighborhoods. IHCA Community Managers work with homeowners in the neighborhoods to prepare and ratify their annual budget, maintain common areas, perform building maintenance and repairs for attached homes and assist with community meetings. The supplemental neighborhoods the IHCA currently manages are: • Concord Commons
• Highstreet Townhomes
• Crofton Springs
• Manchester Court
• Crofton at Village Green 48, 52 & Crofton at Village Green 29, 30, 40
• Sunset Walk
• Dahlia Park • Division 28 • Grand Ridge Drive
• View Ridge • Villaggio • Vista Park • West Highlands Park • zHome
For more information, a map of the neighborhoods and monthly management reports, see: issaquahhighlands.com/learn/ issaquah-highlands-community-association-ihca/supplemental-neighborhoods-of-the-ihca-2/
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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
Ask the IHCA
Remodeling | Noise | Lost and Found | Required House Painting The primary purpose of the IHCA is to preserve, maintain, enhance, and protect the value of property and amenities in the community in accordance with the governing documents. Here are a few of the most popular questions asked recently using the Ask the IHCA webform found at IssaquahHighlands.com. HOW EARLY CAN LANDSCAPE WORK BEGIN IN ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS? The City of Issaquah defines quiet hours from 11pm to 7am. Landscape maintenance, including noisy equipment use, are compliant with City policy after 7am. Report any violations to the IHCA or City of Issaquah. Also, the IHCA landscape crew does not work on Sundays or holidays..
DOES THE COMMUNITY HAVE A LOST AND FOUND? Lost articles found by Issaquah Highlands staff are either kept at the IHCA office, Blakely Hall, or turned over to the Issaquah Police Department as appropriate. Blakley Hall is the official lost and found repository for residents who wish to turn in a found item. WE RECEIVED A NOTICE REQUIRING US TO REPAINT THE FRONT TRIM OF OUR HOUSE BEFORE THE END OF JULY. COULD YOU EXTEND THE NEXT INSPECTION DATE TO THE END OF THIS SUMMER? Yes! The IHCA understands that getting a contractor mid-summer can be difficult. For that reason, if you are unable to complete the required exterior maintenance on your home this season please contact a IHCA Community Manager and we will discuss the process for filing an extension. Thanks again for the great inquires. We are here to help. Keep them coming!
Special Projects This Fall
Landscape & Irrigation Updates
The IHCA landscape and irrigation crews have several projects lined up for the upcoming fall and winter months. We will plant over 5,000 ground cover replacements in several areas as part of our master streetscape improvement plan. We will perform our typical street tree replacement projects in several areas, which involves replacing approximately 100 trees per year. We replace dead or diseased or hazard trees, overgrown and vehicular-damaged trees. We will also replace settled or sunken areas of the streetscape with new sod and soil. This year we will install 80 yards of soil, and around 15,000 square feet of sod to remove trip hazards or unsightly turf in the streetscape.
Landscape: In September, we begin fall pruning in all the areas of the Highlands. The crews will prune almost everything in September and October. The crews will also mow lawns and clean up leaves. We will perform final maintenance in our open spaces before the rainy weather hits. The final rounds of turf and shrub fertilizer will also need to be done. If the weather is not too hot, we will begin some plant installations, or we will postpone these until October
by Lyle Dickey, IHCA Landscape Manager
The irrigation crews will be replacing old system master valves with new upgraded pressure regulating valves. This will prevent unnecessary wear on system piping and its components. The crews will also upgrade filters and valves on several of our non-potable irrigation systems. The filters need to be upgraded simply due to age and performance.
ARC Tip
by Lyle Dickey, IHCA Landscape Manager
Irrigation: September is a tricky month for irrigation because the weather can still be quite hot. The weather determines what type of work is scheduled. If it is still hot out, we continue with irrigation repairs until it cools off. When the weather is cooler, we begin major upgrades or projects because the irrigation system is not in use. We typically do system upgrades in the months of September and October. Well, that about does it! I hope you get out and enjoy the start of the fall colors in the Highlands.
Did you know…When builders install landscaping, they often plant small bushes and trees that, in time, grow too big for the surrounding area? Removing and/or replacing these overgrown items requires ARC approval. The process is simple. Just complete and submit an application found at issaquahhighlands.com. There is no fee and the approval can be quickly processed for small landscape projects. September is an excellent time to replant!!
IN THE KNOW
Plant Standards
• All plant material shall be maintained in an orderly state, trimmed and neat in appearance. Selective pruning techniques must be utilized. Topping of trees is prohibited. • Vegetation shall not encroach on sidewalks, trails, driveways, or any pedestrian right-ofway. The IHCA may prune encroaching plant material without consent. Trees overhanging sidewalks shall be kept trimmed at least 8 feet above the walkways to facilitate pedestrian use. • Dead plants should be removed immediately and then replaced during appropriate growing season (spring or fall). Dead is classified as more than 50% of the plant is without leaves or exhibits dead foliage. • Low hedges used as screens shall have a maximum height of 42 inches. Plant material used for “living fences” made up of trees or shrubs on the sides or back of yard must not exceed 8’ (eight feet) in height. • Evergreen plant materials shall be used to screen exposed house foundations.
The IHCA and goat herder Craig (in foreground) give KUDOS to all who came out during the Great Goat Escape in July to help gather up the wayward goats. With your help, Craig, Nessie and Gigi got the goats safely corralled in Bark Park. Photo Credit: Dmitry Kot 07-30-2019
• Trees and large shrubs should be located to avoid blocking views from interior rooms or adjacent properties.
Thank you for doing your part.
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LIVING GREEN
Time to Electrify Your Ride by Renee Zimmerman, Ashland Park Resident and PSE’s Community Project Manager
Do you spend a lot of time in your car driving to and from work? Those minutes can add up quickly and so can the emissions your car releases. One way to eliminate emissions and reduce your carbon footprint is to electrify your ride. You could also save money along the way! Back in 2001, Erick and I purchased our first hybrid electric vehicle, the Toyota Prius and again a newer Prius in the mid-2000’s. In 2015, I enjoyed around 80 mpg in my Ford CMAX Energi plug-in hybrid. And now, we appreciate the ride in our Hyundai Sonata hybrid vehicle, while reducing our carbon footprint. As Highlands residents, we see many types of electric vehicles in our community, including various Tesla, Nissan, and Prius models. There are estimated 45,000 electric vehicles on Washington State roads, with more added every day. There are various makes and models now available, with options to choose an electric car that’s right for you. Puget Sound Energy is working to
help the state exceed its goal to have 50,000 electric cars on the road by 2020, and one way is by educating the community about electric car benefits. What are those benefits? Did you know electric motors generate nearinstant torque, which means electric cars have extremely fast acceleration and a ‘light’ or ‘zippy’ feel compared to conventional cars and trucks. Another fun fact about electric cars is they do something called ‘regenerative braking.’ That means when you accelerate an electric vehicle, the battery sends energy to the wheels, moving the vehicle forward. When braking, electric cars send energy from the wheels to the battery via the motor, which functions in this scenario as an electric generator. That means they do a great job of not wasting energy. Electric cars are also relatively quiet with engine noise almost entirely eliminated. Because of their ergonomic design, many tend to have lower coefficients of drag, which can also reduce wind passage noise at higher speeds. Another big benefit of electric vehicles is they require less maintenance because they have fewer parts to maintain than a traditional combustion engine. This will reduce
the cost of a typical commute. An average 60-mile commute in a gas-burning vehicle is estimated to cost $7.90, compared to $1.32 for a 60-mile commute in a comparable electric vehicle*. Most electric cars on the market today can cover a 60-mile drive with just one charge. You can get the most out of driving electric when you have: • A plug available for home or workplace charging • Accounts or apps for public charging when you’re on the go • A clear idea of the time needed to charge If you live in a single-family home, you can use a standard, grounded 120V plug. Find out how much your commute will cost and your environmental impact with an electric car by visiting our website: pse.com/electriccars. *Editor’s note: Battery replacement cost not included. After approximately 8 years/100K miles, battery replacement cost is reportedly between $1,500-$9,000. Some car batteries can run you $15K.
I SSA QuA H HIGHLANDS C H A RG I N G S TAT I O N S High Street outside zHome Grand Ridge Plaza parking garage Safeway parking Safeway fuel station King County Metro Park & Ride Wynhaven Apartments Discovery West Apartments Swedish Hospital
Learn more about electric vehicles at the best car show venue, Issaquah’s Historic Triple XXX Drive-in! National Drive Electric Week Car Show Sunday, September 15, 2019, 9:00am – 3:00pm Issaquah’s Triple XXX Drive-in 98 NE Gilman Boulevard, Issaquah
The show is free, but remember to bring cash for that burger – Triple XXX Drive-in still does not accept cards
Issaquah Highlands Connections
September 2019
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LIVING GREEN
Back to School
Living Green Study Guide for Families By Aline Bloch, Eco-Artist and resident of Central Park Neighborhood
In few days, we will put aside our summer routine and get back to school. It seems like the perfect time for me to summarize some important information about how to recycle our trash at home. I went online to chase down new info and review old resources (i.e.: King County Solid Waste Management – Recology/CleanScapes website and facebook. com/RecologyCleanScapes/). Then I created this “study guide” for all of you. We talked about it at home, taught the new tips to the kids. This way we can start the school year fresh and motivated to continue our quest to a more sustainable lifestyle.
VOCABULARY - The 5 R’s
Back to School
Refuse (what you do not need) Reduce (what you need) Reuse (rather than toss) Recycle (what you can’t Refuse, Reduce or Reuse) Rot (compost the rest)
DID YOU KNOW ...
Aluminum foil and pie trays are recyclable when fully free of food residue! Paper that gets dirty from other recycling cannot be reused. Remember to empty -cleandry-recycle. Buying in bulk cuts down our plastic consumption and food waste. Using ECOSIA as Web Search Engine helps plant trees! You can buy sustainable school supplies - bamboo rulers, mechanicals pencils made from recycled plastic!
RESOURCES
Read “101 Ways to Go Zero Waste” by Kathryn Kellogg Go to recology.com/recology-cleanscapes/issaquah/ Visit The Recology Store in Gilman Village
We hope you can join us for Mimosa Morning on the First Day of School (Adults Only) Wednesday, September 4 at 9:00am @ Blakely Hall Details on page 4
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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS
Kids & Families Minecraft Mania
Tuesdays, September 10 & 24, 5:00pm Blakely Hall
Join fellow elementary and middle school Minecraft enthusiasts from novice to expert as we share our knowledge of the Minecraft world including Redstone, building, surviving the night, and more. You’ll need a laptop with licensed Minecraft loaded on it. Club leader is Quinn Ryan at boxcargriz@gmail.com and parent leader is Tim Ryan at dadtime@gmail.com.
Toddler Playgroup
Wednesdays, September 11, 18 & 25, 10:00am Blakely Hall
Moms, dads, caregivers and their children are invited for fun, friendship, support and socializing. Contact katiels84@gmail.com. Search Facebook for Issaquah Highlands Toddler Playgroup.
Arts & Cards Bridge Club
Monday, September 9, 7:00pm Blakely Hall
Grab a partner or come solo to play a little Bridge! Bring your own beverage of choice and a snack to share. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned bridge player, you are welcome to join us. RSVP: Ed Tellman, etellman@pobox.com.
Knit for Life®
Every Monday, 1:00pm Swedish Medical Center, Main Lobby
A network of volunteer knitters in area hospitals, providing physical and mental support in a nontraditional therapeutic environment to cancer survivors, patients and caregivers through knitting. We teach anyone with any skill level. You don’t have to bring anything but yourself. We have all the supplies you will need. Contact: Elaine.Eckert@yahoo.com.
Library-2-Go
Tuesday, September 10, 3:30-4:40pm Outside Blakely Hall
The King County Library will bring the Library-2-Go Book Mobile to Blakely Hall. Bring your library card and browse the curated collection of books – check out your favorites and return any KCLS library books you’ve finished! Free fun for all ages. Next visit: October 8.
Open Mic
Friday, September 27, 6:30pm Blakely Hall
Join us for an evening of fun and entertainment from local talents. Come to sing a song, play music, read poetry, tell a story, perform stand-up comedy, etc., or just join the audience. All ages are welcome to participate! For more info, contact: Dino Go at kabalen.geo@gmail.com.
Photography Meet Up
Saturday, September 21, 10:30am Blakely Hall
Enjoy monthly meetings with guest speakers, share and discuss your work with others, and participate in an online community throughout the month. Contact ihpc@outlook.com.
Poker Night
Thursday, September 26, 7:00pm Blakely Hall
Whether you are a novice or a salty vet looking for some steep competition, you will love our monthly group Texas Hold ’em tournament! Contact Henry at hlh1969@hotmail.com.
Rovin’ Fiddlers
Every Tuesday, 7:00pm Issaquah Highlands Fire Station 73
Drop in on our jam sessions. We welcome guitars, flutes, whistles, banjos, mandolins, autoharps, dulcimers, stand up bass, and percussion. All abilities welcome. Contact Martha at mclnev@yahoo.com.
Yarns & Threads Group Every Friday, 9:00am Blakely Hall
All knitters, crocheters, and stitchers are welcome. For more details or questions, please contact Cathie Coulter at Catherine.coulter@ihmail.com.
Fitness Meditation Group Every Friday, 2:00pm Blakely Hall
Discover how to find moments to relax the mind. The group practice exercises that promote balance, strength, and calmness. Learn techniques to help deal with stress and strain of a busy life. Free to attend and open to all! Questions? Contact ih.meditation@gmail.com.
Mountain Biking Group
The Issaquah Highlands Mountain Biking Group is open to all ages to meet other mountain bike enthusiasts while exploring some of the amazing local mountain bike trails! For more information and details on all planned rides, join us on Facebook at “Issaquah Highlands Mountain Biking Club.”
Taichi Fitness Group Every Wednesday, 6:30am Blakely Hall
The ancient Chinese martial art, Taichi, will be offered every Wednesday at Blakely Hall. Participation is free; a donation of a nonperishable food item for the Food Bank is encouraged. Contact: taichifitness_IH@outlook.com.
Zumba Fitness® Class Every Saturday, 9:00am Blakely Hall
Zumba Fitness is the Latin and world rhythm and dance based fitness party that will change the way you think about working out. Grab your workout clothes, your water bottle, and join the party! Free class but please bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the food bank! Contact: zumbawithcindy@gmail.com.
Special Interest Book Club
Tuesday, September 17, 7:00pm Blakely Hall This month: The Woman in Cabin 10
The book club is a great place to meet neighbors, socialize and explore a variety of books. Email lindsey8@gmail.com or join the Facebook group at facebook.com/ihbookclub.
Bunco Night
Friday, September 6, 7:00pm Blakely Hall
Come roll the dice with friends and neighbors at Bunco Night! Please bring $5 for the prize pool and a snack or drink to share. No experience necessary. For more information and updates, join the Facebook group: Issaquah Highlands Bunco.
Entrepreneur Meetup Sunday, September 8, 7:30pm Blakely Hall
Are you a small business owner or an entrepreneur looking to kick off a business idea? This is an opportunity for IH entrepreneurs to gather and be a resource for each other. Join us to meet like-minded entrepreneurs, learn about what’s working for others and bounce ideas for feedback. Here’s a chance to extend your network of support. For more information, contact: Johnathan Chu johnnychu@outlook.com.
Telecommute Tuesdays
Every Tuesday*, 10:00am - 1:00pm * Except September 3 Blakely Hall
Do you work from home? Do you want a little motivation to work from home once each week? Telecommute Tuesdays were designed for you! Head on over to Blakely Hall on Tuesdays for free wi-fi, coffee and treats and the beautiful setting of our community hall. Questions? Contact Lindsey.P@ihcouncil.org or 425-507-1107.
Toastmasters
Every Thursday, 7:00am Swedish Hospital – 1st Floor Flex Space
Say it better with Toastmasters. Share your interests and goals in a positive, supportive environment. Let us help you expand your knowledge and horizons. Guest are welcome to join a meeting to see what it’s about – it’s one hour of fun, and you won’t be put on the spot! Learn more at https://ihtm.toastmastersclubs.org.
Travel Night
Wednesday, September 11, 7:00pm Blakely Hall Topic: A Culinary Journey Through Thailand
Join award-winning chef, teacher, and restauranteur, Nongkran Daks, winner of Food Network’s “Pad Thai Throwdown with Bobby Flay” to learn about authentic Thai food in her homeland. Special focus will be on Thailand’s delicious and varied culinary scene. And as a special bonus, Chef Nongkran will do a food demo with a tasting! Her husband, Larry, will give a general overview about traveling and living in Thailand as an expatriate. Please bring a snack or beverage to share. Free to attend, but registration is required at issaquahhighlands.com/events.
*All Events are FREE unless otherwise noted.
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September 2019
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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS
Don’t Miss This
Save the Date
Mimosa Morning
Cultural Conversations
Swing by Blakely Hall on the first day of school to celebrate with friends and neighbors! Join us for coffee, mimosas, and a light breakfast. All are welcome. (21 & over)
Cultural Conversations is a safe space for community connection that inspires change through storytelling, new friendships, awareness of diverse cultures, and common bonds. We invite all members of the Issaquah community to join us for an uplifting evening of conversation. The topic for this first session will be “Building Deeper Connections.” Learn more about this program, brought to the community in partnership between Highlands Council and the City of Issaquah, at issaquahhighlands.com/events.
Wednesday, September 4, 9-11:00am Blakely Hall
Mid-Autumn Festival
Sunday, September 8, 4-6:00pm Blakely Hall
Bring the family for a Mid-Autumn Festival to celebrate the moon with friends and neighbors! Enjoy kids crafts & Games, lantern riddles, traditional food (including Mooncakes) and more! Advanced tickets are $10/adult, $5 child. To learn more about the festival and purchase tickets, please visit Issaquahhighlands.com/events.
Single Mingle!
Friday, September 13, 7:00pm Blakely Hall
Join fellow single, divorced or widowed men and women for a fun, facilitated night of building meaningful connections! $15/person includes wine, chocolate, and fruit. Tickets are available at issaquahhighlands.com/ events.
Community-Wide Garage Sale Saturday, September 21, 9-11:00am Blakely Hall
Don’t miss the Issaquah Highlands semi-annual community garage sale. Sell or shop throughout the community! Residents can also bring their sellable goods to Village Green Park and set up shop! Registration for the Yard Sale at Village Green Park is recommended to guarantee your space – www. issaquahhighlands.com/events.
Call for Vendors Issaquah Highlands Shop Local Holiday Bazaar
Saturday, November 30, 11:00am-3:00pm Blakely Hall
Are you a local crafter or home business owner? Share your passion with the community at our annual Shop Local Bazaar! Vendor applications open September 1, with priority given to Issaquah Highlands residents through September 15. We also have a few half tables again this year available for resident kid-preneuers to sell their handmade products. See you at the Bazaar! For more information, visit the event page at issaquahhighlands.com/events.
Thursday, October 3, 7:00pm Blakely Hall
Candidate Forum – School Board Saturday, October 12, 10:30am Blakely Hall
Get to know the candidates on the ballot for the Issaquah School Board. The terms of four of the five School Board Directors end this November and are up for election. Hear from all candidates and learn about their differences to help cast your vote. Doors open at 10:00am.
Candidate Forum – City Council Thursday, October 17, 7:00pm
Get to know the candidates on the ballot for Issaquah City Council! There are four positions open for this election. Positions 2 and 3 both have two candidates running. Hear from all candidates and learn about their differences to help cast your vote. Doors open at 6:30pm.
Halloween Bingo
Friday, October 18, 7:00pm
Join fellow ghosts, monsters and witches for a ghoulishly fun night of Bingo with prizes, snacks and spooky drinks! Come dressed in costume if you dare… General tickets are $10/person and include everything you need to play bingo, snacks, and your first drink ticket. We have a limited number of VIP tickets available for $30/person which include early admittance at 6:00pm, a catered dinner buffet, swag bag, and extra drink ticket! 21+ only. Purchase your tickets now at issaquahhighlands.com/events.
IHCA Architectural Review Committee Tuesday 9/3, 6:00pm IHCA Office
Highlands Fiber Network Advisory Group Monday, 9/9, 5:00pm, IHCA Office
IHCA Finance Committee Tuesday, 9/10, 5:30 pm IHCA Office
Highlands Council Board of Trustees
Tuesday, 9/17, 12:00pm Blakely Hall
IHCA Board of Directors
Wednesday, 9/25, 5:30pm, IHCA Office
City Meetings City Meetings covering Issaquah Highlands topics will be listed at IssaquahHighlands.com/ events.
Get Involved Dia de los Muertos Friday, November 1
Would you like to help with our annual Day of the Dead celebration? We have opportunities for volunteers ages 14+ to help at the event with a variety of jobs, as well as advanced prep from home. Please visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer to sign up!
Shop Local Holiday Bazaar Saturday, November 30
Volunteers needed for our annual Shop Local Holiday Bazaar! Volunteers ages 14+ are welcome to sign up for a shift to help with refreshments, crafts, etc., during this popular event at issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer. Santa will be watching!
Living Green Upcycled Art Workshop Sunday, October 20, 2-4:00pm Blakely Hall
Learn how to make something beautiful out of items we might otherwise discard! Aline Bloch will help us turn recyclables into pieces of art. All attendees will leave with their own creation and plenty of inspiration! Families are welcome; advanced registration required at issaquahhighlands.com/events.
El Dia de los Muertos Celebration Friday, November 1, 6:30-8:30pm Blakely Hall
All are invited to join our community el Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration to honor your loved ones, pets, or anyone who has passed away – feel free to bring a photo, note, or special offering to add to the community altar. We’ll have activities for all ages including a pinata for the kids. Event is free; food truck will be available for purchasing dinner.
For daily updates, follow us on:
Governance Mtgs
Holidays Labor Day
Monday, September 2
Grandparents Day Sunday, September 8
World Suicide Prevention Day Tuesday, September 10
Mid-Autumn Festival
Friday, September 13 (Celebrate at Blakely Hall on 9/8!)
Rosh Hashanah
Sunday, September 29
Office Closures
The IHCA Office, Blakely Hall, Highlands Council and HFN Offices will be closed on September 2 for Labor Day.
Subscribe to our weekly e-letter at IssaquahHighlands.com/connect For the latest details, see IssaquahHighlands.com/events
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September 2019
Issaquah Highlands Connections
Issaquah Highlands Connections
September 2019
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HIGHLANDS YOUTH - HY
BACK TO SCHOOL
Tips to help ease the transition By Jonah Foss, Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board
As we close out the summer and the school year begins anew, many students are caught up in the whirlwind of making the transition from their laid-back summer schedules to the sometimes familiar, sometimes new routine of going back to school. To reduce the nervous energy that seems to overtake students at the beginning of the school year, I suggest to you a couple of ideas that my peers and I found to be important through our experiences in our school system.
Make New Friends
First, your friend group might change, and that’s okay. Having experienced this firsthand, I think it is important to find a group of people who share your values, as well as being people you enjoy spending time with. Sometimes your friends grow apart and being part of a new community is an excellent opportunity to find yourself surrounded by new and exciting peers.
Balance with Extracurriculars
Next, try your best to balance your schedule. Establish a routine while challenging yourself. Instead of loading up on advanced classes, maybe try broadening your horizons by taking a leadership course, playing an instrument, or playing sports. Extracurriculars are important to develop character, make new friends, and to include on upcoming college applicants. I have made lots of friends running on the track team and doing the musical in middle school and have been mentored and had lots of fun through swimming, running and singing programs at the high school level. If you are planning to take advanced placement (AP), honors, or any accelerated class, my rule of thumb is to only take the class if you are interested in the subject. This check is to make sure that students aren’t pressured by their parents and their peers to inundate themselves in a workload that they may not be prepared for or do well with.
Organize and Plan
Finally, a tip relevant for anyone going back to school next year: stay organized, and plan ahead. Middle school is a good time to establish strong study habits, and an opportune time to discover newfound interests and passions. Start using a planner, whether it be on paper or on your phone calendar (I recommend both) and make sure to organize papers in a way that you can find them (folders/binders for each class work great!). High school is the best time to expand on ideas and take classes that set you up for success in a field that you may be interested in. Incorporate standardized test prep to boost your SAT or ACT scores. Have no idea of what you want to do? That’s completely fine! Just make sure to take advantage of the numerous clubs, sports, and student-run organizations that are offered at both the middle and high school level to explore your interests. One final word of advice - Never be afraid to ask for help, ever. Teachers are very accommodating and will usually let you come after school for help, or to make up work that has been missed. Hopefully these tips will help all students succeed in another eventful school year!
Welcoming Week
(Top) Sid Thiagarajan (left) and Jonah at a track meet demonstrating how extracurriculars can make and develop friendships. (Bottom) Jonah (middle) posing with a vocal audition group at a state competition. This group went on to place first in their category, showing commitment to an extracurricular can lead to exciting and rewarding opportunities.
CITY OF ISSAQUAH NEWS
Join Us: Issaquah Welcomes You--A Celebration of our Diverse Community The City of Issaquah, the Issaquah Library and the Issaquah Schools Foundation Cultural Bridges Program would like to invite you to a fun, free, family-friendly event to celebrate Issaquah’s cultural diversity. Make plans to join us September 20, 2019 from 6:00-8:30pm at the Issaquah Community Center, 301 Rainier Blvd S. At the event, you will have the chance to visit the interactive and informational booths of local cultural and non-profit organizations, taste foods from various regions of the world catered by local food trucks and enjoy a celebration of our community through dance and motivational speakers. Embark on a journey of Issaquah’s past, present and future and meet fellow residents from all over the world. As part of national Welcoming Week, this event helps build unity between immigrants, refugees and long-term residents. The City’s diversity has grown over the years – nearly 35% of the population is non-white and over 21% speak a different language. We have an opportunity to build greater connection among the cultures represented in our community Everyone is welcome—Together we build stronger communities! For more information visit welcomingamerica.org
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Issaquah Highlands Connections
dia de los muertos
Issaquah Highlands Connections
September 2019
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10-WEEK PARENT PROJECT
SCHOOL SEPTEMBER SPOTLIGHT written and produced by Tracie Jones, Wisteria Park
Issaquah School District
issaquah.wednet.edu
Issaquah Schools Foundation
3 4 9 12 25 - 26 26
Meet the Teacher – Elementary Only First Day of School First Day of School for Kindergarten School Board Meeting @7:00 PM Family Access Help @6:30 PM School Board Meeting @7:00 PM
“Step Up for Kids” Campaign
isfdn.org
Challenger Elementary
3 17
Back-to-School Social PTA Membership Meeting
Clark Elementary
3 9 9 17 20 24
Popsicles on the Playground Kindergarten Tissues and Tea Picture Day Coffee with Christy Otley Parents Recess with Kids PTA Membership Meeting
3 11 11 19 19
Back-to-School Social Orange Ruler Kick-Off! Curriculum Night New Family Welcome Social PTSA Membership Meeting
3 4 9 11 & 12 17 23 25
PTSA Info Fair Kindergarten Curriculum Night Tea and Tissues Curriculum Nights Picture Day Jag-a-thon Kick-Off! PTSA Membership Meeting
challengerpta.org
clarkpta.org
Grand Ridge Elementary
grandridgeptsa.org
Endeavour Elementary
endeavourptsa.org
Issaquah Middle School
issaquahmiddleptsa.org
Pacific Cascade Middle School pacificcascadeptsa.org
Gibson Ek High School
6 12 19 25
Picture Day Curriculum Night Walk-About Training PTSA General Membership Meeting
3 3 17 19 20 26 26
New Student Orientation PTSA Staff Luncheon (Please Donate!) Curriculum Night- 7/8 @ 6:00 P.M. Curriculum Night – 6th Grade @ 6:00 P.M. Fall Grant Requests Due PTSA General Membership Meeting Back to School Social
No events for Gibson Ek this month
GibsonEk.org
Issaquah High School
issaquahhighptsa.org
**Be sure to check individual web sites for details and updates
6 6 10 12 13 15 17 21
Picture Day First Football Game VS Kent Meridian Curriculum Night New Family Ambassadors Mixer IH PTSA Meeting @ 9:30 A.M. First College Prep ACT/SAT Test IHS Booster Meeting Homecoming Dance
The Parent Project is a 10-week course, sponsored by City of Issaquah and Issaquah Police Department, designed for parents needing extra support, conversation, and tools to build more positive relationships with their kids. Parents learn and practice specific prevention and intervention strategies for negative adolescent behaviors. Session begins in October. Contact Community Resource Officer Ryan Smith, at 425-837-3208, or RyanPS@IssaquahWA.gov.
Reflections Art Competition: Get inspired, today! It is time to get started! Reflections is here! This year’s theme “Look Within…” allows budding artists to unleash their imaginative talents to create original masterpieces. Entries may be submitted in the following areas, all grade levels: dance choreography, film production, lit, music composition, photography, and visual arts. Students may submit three entries. Collection starts in October. Check with individual schools for official forms, details, and dates!
Family Partnership Helps Multicultural Families The Issaquah School District (ISD) Family Partnership is a group of parents and district employees coming together to support student success from multicultural families who need extra help understanding and navigating our school system by offering resources in native languages and providing districtwide events throughout the year. Join us for Family Access Help to learn how ISD utilizes the online site to support school and family communications. Two sessions: 9/25, @Maywood Middle School, 6:30 - 8:30 PM; 9/26, @Clark Elementary, 6:30 to 8:30PM. Questions? Lorna Gilmour, 425-837-7205.
New Families at Middle and High School Transitioning to a new school and community can be overwhelming for parents and students. The New Family Ambassador Program eases your family’s transition by matching an established parent Ambassador with new families to answer questions, offer suggestions, and welcome them into the Issaquah community. Social events scheduled throughout the school year. The program also offers access to shared IMS, IHS and Issaquah resources, including language support. Questions, visit issaquahmiddleptsa. org or issaquahhighptsa.org, under “Programs.”
PCMS Bus Volunteers Needed The first few days of school can be hectic and confusing for new middle schoolers. To smooth the transition, our PTSA is looking for parents to help students find their way, and the correct bus home. Bus duty is easy, a lot of fun, and takes about 30 minutes. Interested, contact Lisa Smalls, LisaOgami@hotmail.com. Thank you!
ISD has moved! Reminder: The ISD Administrative Offices have moved, now located at 5150 220th AVE SE, Issaquah, WA 98029.
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Issaquah Highlands Connections
September 2019
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HOLIDAYS IN THE HIGHLANDS
What Mid-Autumn Festival means to me… by Kaili Kirschbaum, 12-year-old Crofton Springs resident
As a child who is half-Asian growing up in America, I don’t know a lot about my Vietnamese heritage – well, at least not as much as my Vietnamese-American mom wishes I would. While we eat lots of cuisines and delicacies from all over Asia, we don’t speak her native language nor are we surrounded by family who are immersed in her original culture. So, when we have a chance to observe Lunar New Year (Tết) or Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu), we really enjoy learning about her childhood through these celebrations. I especially love Mid-Autumn Festival because the “Tết Trung Thu” song is one of the only Vietnamese songs I remember my mom singing to me as a toddler. Even though we sang it regularly, I didn’t know what the lyrics meant until I asked her one day to translate the words for me. Then, she shared with me her childhood memories of visiting the temple every year with her family in her áo dài and playing with the lantern her father would make just for her. When my sister and I go to Mid-Autumn Festivals in this area, we don’t wear the traditional outfits or hand-make our lanterns. That’s okay, because we still get to eat moon cakes (bánh trung thu) and all the candies we want! My little sister and I are looking forward to our first Mid-Autumn
Festival in Issaquah Highlands and we’re excited to share our culture with our friends! But for me, the best part is getting to spend time with my mom doing something from her childhood. Note from Lindsey Pinkston, Issaquah Highlands Community Program Manager: I am excited this year to continue our annual community celebration of mooncakes and to expand the event to include traditions from multiple Asian cultures. We invite neighbors of ALL backgrounds to attend the celebration and share in this special holiday.
Tết Trung Thu Folksong Lyrics in English:
Lyrics in Vietnamese:
At Mid-Autumn Festival, walk around with lanterns lit. Take them all across the town, singing to the autumn moon. Lanterns all in different shapes, lantern angel, lantern dream, Lantern fish, or lantern star, lantern swan or butterfly. Take my lantern to the sky; take my lantern to the moon!
Tết Trung Thu rước đèn đi chơi Em rước đèn đi khắp phố phường Lòng vui sướng với đèn trong tay Em múa ca trong ánh trăng rằm. Đèn ông sao với đèn cá chép Đèn thiên nga với đèn bướm bướm Em rước đèn này đến cung trăng. Đèn xanh lơ với đèn tím tím Đèn xanh lam với đèn trắng trắng Trong ánh đèn rực rỡ muôn màu.
The author, Kaili, with her younger sister Klara, in 2015 dressed in preparation for that year’s MidAutumn Celebration.
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Issaquah Highlands Connections
RESIDENT PROFILE
Goats Gone Viral How one Issaquah Highlands couple made viral video fame Issaquah Highlands’ Magnolia Park residents, Mark Svendsen and Helen AuSvendsen quickly shot to video fame as their footage of the “Great Goat Escape” of July 2019 went viral online and on media channels around the world. On July 30, 200 goats hired by the IHCA to assist with clearing vegetation clearing escaped from their enclosure in the Mulberry neighborhood when Mark and Helen drove by and captured the video. Their video of the goats running free through the front yards, and front porches, of the Mulberry neighborhood was an instant hit. Mark posted the video twice on YouTube, once with and once without sound, accruing more than 120K views and more than 100 comments. Media outlets around the world clamored for permission to share Mark’s video. We interviewed Mark via email to ask what it’s like to make viral video fame. Abridged here, read the entire interview at issaquahhighlands.com/connect/news-and-media/. WERE YOU AWARE GOATS WERE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD WORKING FOR THE LOCAL LANDSCAPE CREW? Of course. We went to greet them as soon as they arrived on our street on a Friday evening. Every year we look forward to the goats working between our back yard and the greenbelt. We feel privileged to have them next to our house for a few days every year. WHAT WERE YOU DOING THAT EVENING WHEN YOU SAW THE GOATS COMING DOWN THE ROAD? We had just been driving home from work in Seattle and picked up our two kids from camp. My first reaction was that I had to stop the car to avoid hitting the goats. As I was just about to tell Helen to take a video, I noticed she was already on it. WHAT HAPPENED NEXT? After filming the video, we stopped the car and pondered how we could help. A group of ten goats took off down an alley so I ran after them and managed to herd them back to where Craig, the herder, was. I then went with Craig to try and locate the rest of them by following goat droppings on the street. I ended up running all around the neighborhood to help track them down.
WHAT WAS THE FIRST INDICATION THAT YOUR VIDEO WAS REACHING MORE THAN JUST FAMILY AND FRIENDS?? After posting it on YouTube, I shared it in a comment on the long Facebook post about the escape. I also posted it on Twitter, but I have only just over 200 followers. I didn’t try to promote the video at all. Seventeen hours after that is when the views shot up. It was posted to the Seattle Reddit forum at 11:00am the next morning, and that was probably a large factor in it getting a lot of attention. Midday, that post on Reddit had 700 upvotes, which is a lot for Seattle. A few hours later in the middle of the night, a UK press agency asked to pay us to use the video, but I didn’t think much of it. Around noon the next day I got a call on my mobile phone from KIRO7 News asking for an interview to talk about the video. Helen also started getting calls on her phone around the same time. A few other news organizations called after that. It surprised us that they could all find our cell phone numbers so quickly WHEN DID YOU FIRST REALIZE YOUR VIDEO HAD “GONE VIRAL”? HOW DID YOU FEEL ABOUT THAT? We looked at the views on the YouTube video and found they were obscenely high. Then comments started appearing on the YouTube video, Twitter, and Facebook messages asking for permission to use the video. Then companies who specialize in buying and selling viral videos started competing to get exclusive rights to market it and give us a cut. WHAT WAS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT MEDIA OUTLET TO ASK TO SHARE YOUR VIDEO? Having the video appear on Good Morning America felt like the most significant outlet that shared it. WHAT IS THE MOST DISTANT MEDIA OUTLET TO ASK TO SHARE YOUR VIDEO? Russia Times, The Independent (UK), and Fuji TV in Japan IF YOU COULD DO THE WHOLE THING OVER AGAIN, WOULD YOU DO IT DIFFERENTLY? I wish I would have taken some additional videos while helping to track down the goats and return them safely, especially knowing now that there was so much interest in what happened. See the full interview at: issaquahhighlands.com/ connect/news-and-media/.
Congratulations TARUN Veeraraghavan
CONCORD COMMONS Neighborhood Veer and Latha are proud to announce the graduation of their son Tarun from Issaquah High School. Tarun will attend University of Washington in Fall 2019. Congratulations and wishing Tarun success in all his future endeavors. Lots of love from,
Veer, Latha and Tanish.
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DOG TALK
Can I Pet Your Dog? by John Knuth, Resident Discovery West, Owner of DogSmart
There is no shortage of dogs in Issaquah Highlands. In Seattle, dogs outnumber children (reference Seattle Magazine) and that number is on the rise – not surprising for one of the most dog friendly cities in the US! In addition to the rising number of dogs sharing our lives, our understanding of the importance of socializing our dogs, albeit an incomplete understanding, has also progressed over the last decade. The result of these two trends has led to more interactions between strangers and dogs which often begins with the innocent request, “Can I pet your dog?”
Seen here is Connections Editor, Nina, with her friend’s dog, Lola, as she instructs Lilly to let the dog sniff her hand first when asking if she can pet the dog. But don’t stop there! Read your dog’s body language, too.
Most people instinctively respond with, “She’d love that,” or “Sure, thanks for checking.” Variations include “let her sniff your hand first,” or some other polite phrase that gives permission while also suggesting that there is a “right way” for the person or child to approach their dog. I’d sign up for a greeting like that any day of the week over one in which an unfamiliar person simply walks over and starts petting your dog on top of her head without any introduction at all.
person, in that specific location, on that particular day. Simply ask the stranger to relax his/her hands at their side or to turn and crouch slightly to see if your dog takes a step forward or even looks in that direction. If your dog looks to the side or starts sniffing the ground, it’s time to say your polite goodbyes and move on. Dogs are like us in many ways: They approach seemingly similar situations differently depending on how they feel on a particular day.
There is a third response and it is the only one which considers whether your dog wants to be petted by that particular
Should it really matter if the stranger stopped to ask if your dog is turning her head to the side as the person approaches
on a foundation that includes both, the benefits are endless.
with outstretched hands about to deliver an unsolicited massage? Could a wellmeaning owner asking a stranger to let her dog “sniff his hand first” be missing her dog’s tightly closed mouth and pulling back of her ears ever so slightly?
The brilliant Animal Behaviorist Chirag Patel once said, “Dogs shout when we don’t listen to their whispers.” This thinking has become a mantra for managing the relationships between people and their dogs. If you’d like to learn more about Chirag Patel’s techniques, please visit domesticatedmanners.com.
Understanding our dogs’ body language is THE most important component of raising a well-adjusted dog. That’s why it is a recurring theme in this monthly column. A close second is giving our dogs the power of choice – the ability to control what happens to them as they navigate our human world. When you build a relationship with your dog
ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS TRIVIA
Every month we ask three Issaquah Highlands-related questions. Prove your knowledge of the Issaquah Highlands by emailing me the answers! Some months may be easy - other months will test your internet search skills. August 2019 answers: 1. The first Highlands Day was in 2007. 2. 4,500 people are estimated to have attended in 2018. 3. My favorite part is the food! Correct answers were submitted by: Answering 2 correctly:
Rosie Amini
Answering 3 correctly:
Sarah Soriano
Thanks to everyone who participated!
September is back to school! Be ready for slower speeds and increased traffic along Park Drive as you drive by Grand Ridge Elementary. How much do you know about this highly acclaimed school that’s right in the middle of our neighborhood? 1. H ow many students attended Grand Ridge in 2018? 2. W hat is the speed limit in front of the school when the lights are flashing? 3. What is the school mascot?
Grand Ridge Elemenrary
If you think you have the answers, please email it to IHTrivia@gmail.com along with your full name. Responses will be accepted until Sept 12th. Those with correct answers will see their name published in next month’s issue of Connections. Everyone who responds with a correct answer will be entered to win a $25 gift certificate to Habit Burger. Every correct answer is an entry! Trivia are brought to you by Chelsea Musick of Central Park Neighborhood.
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HOME ORGANIZATION
Declutter Challenge #9 Organizing for the School Year
by Johnna Masterson, Central Park Resident and Owner of Inspired and Organized
Happy September! Many people see spring as a time of renewal, and January as a time of new beginnings. But I personally think September is one of the special times throughout the year when you can push the reset button. At this point, you are likely done shopping for supplies and are ready for the beginning of another school year. With all these preparations, you may feel a little stressed, overwhelmed or even frustrated. Sometimes even the weather change can deeply affect people. Instead of letting this funk set in, create a new list of goals! This can be very motivating! Also be sure some of your goals are about creating a more organized life. This way you are putting systems in place to reduce stress every day. One organizing goal I recommend for this time of year is creating a system for all the paperwork about to inundate your home. It can accumulate and take over so quickly, so establishing this from the start can be helpful. Choose a place close to your entryway where your children can empty their bags right away. Choose two bins, containers or boxes. Have them put anything that needs to be signed or returned in the first bin and anything else (like art, completed math sheets, etc.) in the second. This will ensure that nothing important is missed (or stuck crumpled up in the bottom of a bag). You will also be teaching your children how to prioritize and how not to procrastinate. This is something that will follow them throughout their lives. With four boys, this system has by far been the most successful for us! Another idea to help tame that early school-yearchaos is to give each of your family members a separate bin on your stairs. Be sure to choose a durable material and use a different color for each
person. Anything they leave behind throughout the house, place in their bin. At the end of each night, every family member takes theirs upstairs and puts everything away. This leads to less arguing, less “asks” and less frustration. This system works well for laundry day too! And to take it a step further for the youngest ones, put the folded laundry in the bin, in order of how they will put it away in their dressers. You are giving your children a task they can complete and taking some of the load from your shoulders. This will work for you all year long! SEPTEMBER DECLUTTER CHALLENGE: This might not be the most popular challenge area, but it is a necessary one. I want you to create a “utility drawer” out of your junk drawer! It’s probably filled to the brim with a random assortment of treasures, several of which would be useful if they were easy to access. Step #1: Dump it! Seriously. Dump all the contents out on the floor. Step #2: Sort everything in categories. While you sort, be sure to get rid of any garbage and put things back throughout your house that don’t belong in the drawer. Once you are done sorting, be sure to organize while you put everything back. If funds are tight, use plastic snack and lunch bags. Otherwise, bamboo dividers and acrylic containers are a few of my favorite organizers. Now you have a long-term solution for when someone in your home is searching for a hammer, push pins, batteries, a rubber band or a tape measure!
Ask Kari!
Dear Kari, I just began online dating and I’m excited to report that I have met a very nice man. He lives two hours away from me, but we talk every day. He wants us to meet in person and I am nervous to do so. Everything about him seems to check out, but what if I meet him and he is less than I hoped? I am so tired of being single, but I don’t want to have my heart disappointed. - Scared Tinderella
Dear Scared Tinderella, First, congratulations on taking the chance to meet someone new. Online dating is very popular today for many reasons and should not be considered odd or desperate. That said, please consider meeting this new man in a public setting and updating your family and friends with his personal information (name, address, phone number). I hope that both of you have a good connection and are interested in moving forward with each other. If not, consider your efforts good in the sense that you took a chance on getting to know another person on this planet and potentially meeting a life partner. And remember, when we act towards our stated goals, we often get them. Good luck! -Kari Dear Kari, My youngest child just graduated from college and I recently downsized my home. I moved to another town and I was at first felt excited about all the new changes in my life, but now I am finding myself scared and feeling lost with what is ahead for me. After raising a family and working most of my life, I now have options and choices, but I am afraid of making a mistake. Plus, I am feeling lonely most days with all this adult freedom. Help, how can I cope with all these changes and be happy? - Feeling Lost
Provide each family member with a bin located conveniently for you to place the items they leave in the living areas. From the bins they can put their own stuff away.
Put systems in place that reduce stress every day!
Dear Feeling Lost, You have entered a new period of a normal life transition to mature adulthood with options. To begin to map out what is next for you, take time to view your life in the upcoming year; what do you hope for yourself, how would you like to spend your days if given the choice of choosing activities that speak to you? I often ask my patients to reflect on what a good day looks like to them. Answering this reflection question can provide us with a view of activities that speak to our heart and spirit. Once you reflect on the things that most speak to you, sprinkle a few of those activities into your week/month. Spending time doing what matters most to us stabilizes us through periods of transition. Lastly, do not let fear and anxiety (which are both normal feelings for everyone) prevent you from making choices. Make a choice. If it is a match for you, great! If not, take that experience as good information to use in the future. Best wishes to you as you move your life forward! -Kari I love to hear from our readers. Email your Ask Kari questions to kari@ihcg.co. All questions will be answered in upcoming columns. About Kari: Kari O’Neill, MSW, LICSW, is a licensed independent clinical social worker and is a resident of Issaquah Highlands. This column is for entertainment purposes only. If you are in crisis and in need of support, please contact the Crisis Clinic at 866-427-4747.
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HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK
From One Endpoint to Another … or, From One User to Another by Robert Milligan, Starpoint Resident An endpoint device is an Internet-capable computer hardware device on a TCP/IP network. The term can refer to desktop computers, laptops, smart phones, tablets, thin clients, printers or other specialized hardware such as POS terminals and smart meters. We first moved to Issaquah Highlands in 2004. My business needed the quality and speed of HFN’s internet connection. Work life was my focus and HFN was an incredible help. I worked for an Alaska-based company that was a provider of managed internet systems and applications. Internet performance was critical to our success. My AK officemates were astonished at my connection speeds to downtown Seattle, exceeding their own servers’ connections to the lower 48. We joked about relocating some of the strategic servers into my basement.
The Echo Dot Timer/Clock pairs with Alexa’s timer, giving you a visual of the timer’s function.
Unfortunately, an opportunity led us to move away from the Highlands in 2016. For our next internet service provider, we went with brand-X cable. That was a distinct drop in performance, and let-down in service and user experience. It also cost much more! Alas, because of all the wonderful offerings of Issaquah Highlands (with HFN!), it only took three years before our compass swung back here. Since July we’ve been back enjoying HFN’s great performance.
I’m curious about my neighbors’ doings and figured that if I wrote about my experience, maybe someone else would share their thoughts about HFN and what cool devices, software or games they’re using. Below is what I have connected today, basic yet content-rich. Hit “Reply All” and share your HFN experience by emailing Frank Pineau, HFN’s General Manager: FPineau@hfn.org .
Highlands Fiber Network: Fiber to the Home, Community Owned Issaquah Highlands was designed as an innovative, highly connected, urban village enjoying traditional neighborhood design. Fiber to the home, The “Covenant for community owned! Community” was created to fund it, attached to land titles. The Covenant states that each home purchase must include a connection to the network ($250 one-time fee, required at closing). And each home is required to subscribe to the minimum connection (10/10mbps), which is currently $50/month.
Most apartment rentals in Issaquah Highlands provide the option to join the network, with the same hook up fee ($250) and the same monthly rates.
My Tech Stack: • Internet - Highlands Fiber Network (HFN). Yes, there are alternatives up here, such as DSL from the phone company, cable TV, and some wide-area Wi-Fi. But nothing delivers the raw speed and reliability like HFN. Also, HFN is the least expensive to boot (no pun)!
HFN’s High Speed Fiber Optic Network is fast, reliable, and competitively priced. Our current offerings include 10/10mbps, 100/100mbps and 1000/1000mbps speeds. For rates and information
• Wi-Fi - Google Wi-Fi. I found a review in TechRadar that concluded, “Not only is Google Wi-Fi the best wireless mesh router money can buy, but it’s also one of the best routers today.” My reading and selection took only five minutes. (I don’t need a mesh router, which are really for a multi-story home.)
Highlands Fiber Network Customer Service: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week highlandsfibernetwork.com (425)427-0999 support@hfnservices.com or see highlandsfibernetwork.com/support
• TV-a – Apple TV. We find ample viewing selections with Apple TV (channels: Apple, Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube and many others).
Direct questions about the Covenant for Community to:
• TV-b – ATT DIRECTV™ NOW. With ATT wireless account at $27 per month there’s another list of major streaming channels to all your devices, with DVR (recording). We watch DIRECTV™ through an Apple TV app.
Showing clockwise from top left: Amazon Echo Dot, Philips Hue, Google Wi-Fi, and a USB power hub. Not showing Apple TV and SmartTV. Not counting our PCs and smartphones, we have five active endpoints.
• TV-c – Samsung Smart TV. It’s new for us, with another lineup of channels and services. • Devices – Amazon Echo Dot. This is so useful, and fun! I added the Amazon wall clock to sync with Echo and show countdown timer lights. So cool! • Household Lights – Philips HUE. We like programming house lights, especially to come on in winter before we return home on those dark nights. In the morning, they alight a few minutes after the alarm clock, an occasional extra needed nudge to get up. Finally, speaking of waking, while it’s not connected to the internet, our iHOME alarm clock radio is great. It requires zero management for weekday alarming, uses atomic time and functions even during power outages. Please do chime in with your set up on HFN! I’d like to read in future columns new ways my neighbors optimize this powerful engine, HFN, and what works best for them.
Frank Pineau, General Manager, HFN fpineau@hfn.org, 425-394-4184 HFN Office is at Blakely Hall
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Issaquah Highlands Connections EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Hazard Hunt for the Whole Family September Installment for Your 2019 Readiness by Amanda Keverkamp, CERT Team 9, Resident of Crofton Springs
We are nine months into our year-long effort to prepare for disaster. Following Washington’s Prepare in a Year guide, we’ve spent an hour each month completing a preparedness activity that helps our families – and community – be ready for anything. This month, we’re going to spend some time indoors doing a home hazard hunt. As we are well aware, Washington is poised for a major earthquake. It will come on suddenly, and when we least expect it. Californians experienced a 7.1 earthquake this summer, which sent unsecured items crashing to the floor. The goal of this home hazard hunt is to help prevent that from happening to you and your family. Take 30 to 60 minutes to walk through your home and identify household items and decorations which might become a hazard when the earth rocks and rolls. • Bookcases, china hutches, and armoires – tall furniture could topple over during an earthquake. Make sure to anchor those to the wall using metal anti-tip furniture kits or wall straps. • Framed pictures, art, and mirrors – secure hanging items to the wall, paying special attention to items hanging over beds. • Vases, small lamps, small picture frames, candles, decorative bowls, etc. – use museum putty to help keep small decorative items from falling off shelves.
C ERT EV EN T S Meet Issaquah’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) or join these training opportunities:
Issaquah Farmers Market Every Saturday 9:00am – 2:00pm Pickering Barn
Salmon Days
October 5-6 10:00am – 6:00pm Downtown Issaquah
• Water heater – securely fasten the water heater and tank to the wall with heavy-duty metal strapping. • Appliances – secure appliances like refrigerators, washers and dryers, and air conditioners with earthquakeresistant flexible nylon straps and buckles. • Cabinets – add cabinet locks or safety latches to cabinets with glass or chemical contents. • Chimney – your chimney should be secured to the framing of the roof with sheet metal straps and angle bracing, have your chimney inspected for safety issues. Doing a home hazard hunt is a great way to get the whole family involved. Have kids go through their rooms identifying objects that may fall during an earthquake. It may also open up opportunities for conversations about preparedness and safety topics they might be concerned about. If you have gone through your house before, take a few minutes to check on new things you may have added since your last hunt. For more information and details on how to secure household items, visit FEMA.gov and search for earthquake home hazard hunt.
CERT Classes Start Next Month Mark your calendars! CERT classes are starting up next month. The CERT – Community Emergency Response Team – program trains citizens for all hazards, teaching valuable skills like fire suppression, search and rescue, disaster medical care, and more. The eight-week course begins September 26. To learn more and register visit issaquahcitizencorps.com.
First Aid Class
November 2 9:00am – 3:00pm Issaquah City Hall Visit issaquahcitizencorps.org/ training.html for details about these events and more.
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September 2019
RENTAL FACILITIES
DIRECTORY ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION 1011 NE High Street Suite 210 Monday–Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm
MAIN PHONE: 425-427-9257 | AFTER HOURS: 425-223-8887 | IssaquahHighlands.com Governing Body Responsible for:
Property Management Enforcement of CCRs, Rules, Regs Architectural Review Common Area Landscape
Board of Directors ihcaboard @ihcommunity.org Jim Young, President Rossie Cruz, Vice President Dan Vradenburg, Treasurer Greg Underwood, Director Bryan Shiflett, Director Shiva Bosedevarahatti, Director Ben Rush, Director
Funded by:
Annual IHCA Assessments Neighborhood Assessments
HIGHLANDS COUNCIL Blakely Hall 2550 NE Park Drive Monday–Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm*
MAIN PHONE: 425-507-1107 | IssaquahHighlands.com Blakely Hall Social Programs Community Garden Connections Newspaper issaquahhighlands.com BlakelyHall.com E-Letter Official Social Media
Blakely Hall
2550 NE Park Drive 425-507-1107 | kim.k@ihcouncil.org | BlakelyHall.com Blakely Hall is Issaquah Highlands’ award-winning community center that feels like a luxury lodge. With a variety of meeting, art & dining spaces, an outdoor patio, and adjacent park, it accommodates groups from 20 -200. See our webpage for more information or contact Lindsey at Highlands Council with your questions.
Fire Station #73 Meeting Room
1280 NE Park Drive 425-313-3200 | eastsidefire-rescue.org/Facilities
Homestreet Bank
Conference Room 909 Northeast Ellis Dr. | 425-677-2210 homestreet.com/branches/issaquah-branch
Sarah Hoey, Executive Director | sarah.h@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1120 Barbara Uribe, Senior Accountant and Benefits Coordinator | barbara.u@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1123 Kristyn McKinnon, Accounting Manager | kristyn.m@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1117 Soledad Ruiz, Account Receivable Specialist | soledad.r@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119 Blair Krieg, Community Manager | blair.k@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1121 Debbie Orosco, Community Manager | deborrah.o@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1134 Lyle Dickey, Landscape Manager | lyle.d@ihcommunity.org Matthew Hendrikse, Maintenance Facilities Manager | matthew.h@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1137 Billing Inquiries | payments@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119
Responsible for:
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Governing Body
Board of Trustees hcbot@ihcouncil.org Gary Ashby, President David Ngai, Vice President/Treasurer Ami Desai-Mehta, Secretary Kimberly Kapustein, Trustee Philip Nored, Trustee Jimmy Ochiltree, Trustee Anna Preyapongpisen, Trustee
Funded by:
Sponsorships/Grants & Advertising Community Enhancement Fees (1/4 of 1% on sale of home) Retail/Commercial pays by the square foot, Rental Apartments by the door Christy Garrard, Executive Director | christy.g@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1110 Nina Milligan, Communications Manager | nina.m@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1111 Michele McFarland, Controller | michele.m@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1108
YWCA Family Village
Community Rooms 930 NE High St. | 425-270-6800 ywcaworks.org/locations/family-village-issaquah
CONNECTIONS Connections: By Community, For Community Connections News is a nationally recognized monthly community newspaper written mostly by volunteer-resident writers, edited and published by Issaquah Highlands Council. Connections helps Highlands Council fulfill its mission to develop a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, stewardship and well-being. Join the Connections Team Highlands Council is always looking for volunteer contributors. Contact Nina Milligan, Communications Manager, at nina.m@ihcouncil.org. Submit an Announcement for “Milestones” See your announcements published in the new life “Milestones” section of Connections. We accept birth/adoption, graduation, marriage, obituary and culturally-recognized life milestone announcements for Issaquah Highlands residents only. See submission form and guidelines at IssaquahHighlands.com. Interested in Advertising in Connections? For more information, contact Nina Milligan, Communications Manager, at nina.m@ihcouncil.org . More information, ad packets/pricing, editorial calendar and electronic archives can be found here: issaquahhighlands.com/ connect/connections-news/ Opinions expressed either by paid advertisers or editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of Highlands Council or this newspaper. Highlands Council reserves the right to accept or refuse submissions, and to edit content. We also reserve the right to refuse advertising or content that in our opinion does not reflect the standards of this paper.
Lindsey Pinkston, Community Program Manager | lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1109 Kim Kirschbaum, Administrative Assistant | kim.k@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1107 Vicki Grunewald, Graphic Design & Digital Marketing Coordinator | vicki.g@ihcouncil.org Julie Clegg, Creative Coordinator | julie.c@ihcouncil.org
GET INVOLVED
COMMUNITY SERVICES AT BLAKELY HALL
Getting move involved in our community is a fun and easy way to meet people and contribute to the participatory culture of Issaquah Highlands.
Neighborhood lost & found • Free Wifi • Limited Copy & Fax Services (fee-based, by appointment) • Notary Service (fee based, by appointment)
Visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer/ for more information or contact Lindsey at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org or 425-507-1109
* Excluding holidays and private event closures.
HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK
Support: 425-427-0999 | HighlandsFiberNetwork.com Frank Pineau, General Manager | FPineau@HFN.org
Governing Body
Board of Directors Larry Norton Tim Underwood Allen Enebo Charlie Herb
@issaquahhighlands @IssHighlands @issaquahhighlands Sign up for our weekly E-Letter at issaquahhighlands.com
EMERGENCY Emergency: 9-1-1 Issaquah Police (non-emergency) 425-837-3200 WA Dept of Fish & Wildlife 425-775-1311
Emergency Contact Number For after-hours emergencies not involving police and fire response or gas or water main breaks, contact IHCA at 425-223-8887
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